Past Themes

Discover all the previous themes of the Character Design Challenge and the names of all the Special Guest Jurors. Learn all the rules to participate, promote your work and join the coolest community of character designers on the Internet!

Hello everybody! Welcome to the Character Design Challenge (CDChallenge), an online community open to artists of any level, background and drawing style who want to create and share their unique vision of a chosen theme, every month! In this page you will find the list for all the previous themes for the Character Design Challenge and all the artists who have kindly accepted to be our Special Guest Jurors. Please remember that only artworks based on our current theme can be posted in our Facebook group.

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Challenge #50: Cavemen

Our forty-ninth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of February 2019, the deadline was the 2nd of March 2019. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Caveman.

BRIEF''There was a time when the world was younger, when the trees were the tallest thing we could see. Great beasts and storms roared over the land and we cowered before it all in wonder because we were so very small.. but our small size hid our giant spirit. We started to share our experience and knowledge, we discovered love, we fought uncountable battles against all odds, shaping the world with our dreams and ambitions. Follow us in this perilous journey, back in time to the dawn of human civilisation..’’

Challenge #49: Mouse Warrior

Our forty-ninth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of January 2019, the deadline was the 2nd of February 2019. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Mouse Warrior.

BRIEF''The little Kingdom of Rattendale has been attacked by their most bloodthirsty foe, the cruel Horde of Ferrets, monsters capable to break in, destroy their underground cities and feast on the flash of their babies. In this desperate time all the mouses from the kingdom are arming themselves to protect their families and fight back these cruel invaders. Join the call for freedom! War has come to our doors and we need you NOW!..’’

Challenge #48: Pokémon

Our forty-eighth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of December 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of January 2019. The artists of our community were invited to create fan-arts or re-design a character from the Pokémon franchise.

BRIEF'''After he turns 10 years old, Ash Ketchum is allowed to start his journey in the world of Pokémon and dreams of becoming a Pokémon master. On the day he is to receive his first Pokémon, Ash wakes in a panic, having overslept. When he finally reaches Oak's Lab, the local Pokémon researcher has already given away the three Pokémon he entrusts to new trainers. The only one that he has left is a Pikachu..’’

Challenge #47: Backpackers

Our forty-seventh Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of November 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of December 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Backpacker.

BRIEF''The desire to find something real and to connect with something, or someone. That what drives hundreds of young backpackers from all over the world to travel to a remote and secret island with adventure on their mind. What they desire is to embark on a mystical journey, find love, live in a paradise far away from the constant buzz and social pressure of an overcomplicated modern society, perhaps even reaching an higher state of consciousness and find purpose in their lives. However, utopia is not easy thing to bring into being, and paradise could be less than perfect..''

Challenge #46: Ghosts And Poltergeists

Our forty-sixth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of October 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of November 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Ghost or a Poltergeist.

BRIEF'''On Halloween, the spirits of the undead come back to earth for a single night. Many of them return to the world of the living to see or to say their last goodbye to friends and family, but others have more cruel intentions. Driven by their hatred for the wrongs they have suffered when they were alive, these restless spirits seek revenge against their old living enemies. Who will come to visit you this Halloween? ...''

Challenge #45: Candy People

Our forty-fifth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of September 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of October 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Candy person.

BRIEF''Her Highness Princess Jelly Bean is announcing the annual parade of the sweetest people of all the Candyland! Citizens of Cookietown, Cakeburg, Lolliville and many other cities will meet to celebrate this sugary event. The parade will end in a festive gathering where, as per tradition, two outstanding citizens will be crowned Mr and Mrs Sweet Tooth of the Year. Who are going be the glycemic champions this time?''

Challenge #44: Insect Warrior

Our forty-fourth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of August 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of September 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a fearless Insect Warrior.

BRIEF''It's total war in the insect world! The Evil Empire of the Arachnids has ultimately decided to attack the many insect's kingdoms and republics of the forest. For the first time in their long history the Shiny Dukedom of the Beetles, the Republic of the Amazons Moths, the Wandering Grasshopper Ronins, the Sacred Theocracy of the Praying Mantis, the Realm of the Ants, the Horde of the Locusts, The Flying Freehold of the Dragonflies and many, MANY others will unite to defend themselves from a common, cruel enemy!...''

Challenge #43: Baroque Aristocracy

Our forty-third Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of July 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of August 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of an noble from the Baroque age.

BRIEF''After the death of his chief minister, the Italian Cardinal Mazarin, Louis XIV began his personal rule of France. An adherent of the concept of the divine right of kings and a strong supporter of the idea of a centralised state governed from the capital, the ''Sun King'' eliminated the remnants of feudalism persisting in parts of France by compelling many members of the nobility to inhabit his lavish Palace of Versailles, succeeded in pacifying the aristocracy. By these means he became one of the most powerful kings of France and consolidated a system of absolute monarchical rule...''

Challenge #42: African Tribes

Our forty-second Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of June 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of July 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of an African Tribesman.

BRIEF''Time to pack your suitcase! Get ready to set off on a journey that will take you to the mysterious and ancestral continent of Africa. In this adventure you will travel trough the Sahara Desert and after sailing down the Nile River, you will reach the Serengeti Plain, climb the Mount Kilimanjaro and explore the perilous Congolese rainforest. You'll meet the most fascinating tribes that the world has ever known: Zulu, Maasai, San Bushmen, Yoruba, Xhosa, Hausa, Himba, Oromo and many, many more. The journey begins...''

Challenge #41: Street Fighter

Our forty-first Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of May 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of June 2018. The artists of our community were invited to create fan-arts or re-design a character from the Street Fighter franchise.

BRIEF'Sagat, the world best Muay Thai fighter, invites all the top martial artists from all around the world in Thailand to compete in a tournament to prove that he is the greater fighter alive. But in reality this competition is secretly organised by the bloodthirsty and cruel leader of the Shadaloo criminal organisation, M. Bison. He wants to put his hands on Ryu, a young fighter from Japan, who's the key to fully unleash his mysterious and murderous 'Psyco Power'. Bison is ready to use as many illegal methods as possible to achieve his final goal of dominating the world and bend it to his will. Only a courageous fighter can stop his evil plans. Are you ready? Fight!...''

Challenge #40: Space Pirates

Our fortieth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of April 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of May 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Space Pirate.

BRIEF''Elisabeth 'RedStar' Clayden was the fiercest, most terrifying pirate of the galaxy. They said her attacks and boardings had amassed her a fabulous amount of treasure, the greatest ever known. Like any good pirate, RedStar trusted no one, and always kept her treasure right under her tentacles, in the enormous hold of her spaceship. When finally her vessel crashed on the remote desert planet of Mohrn, pirates from the entire galaxy jumped on their ships to put their hands on the invaluable loot. The greatest of all treasure hunts has begun! ...''

Challenge #39: Dragons & Dragonriders

Our thirty-ninth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of March 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of April 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Dragon or a Dragonrider (or both).

BRIEF''Long time ago, in a distant land forgotten in time, a old dragon appeared in the sky. His name was Alghar and he was the largest and the most cruel dragon that men had ever seen. With only the sheer power of his size, strength and burning breath, he single handedly destroyed many of the villages and cities of the realms of the men. In that dark time, only an handful of fearless warriors were able to oppose this unstoppable and deadly force, the mighty Dragonriders! Courageous men and women with a mysterious past, that were able to tame dragons and ultimately use the same ancestral power...''

Challenge #38: Alice in Wonderland

Our thirty-eighth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of February 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of March 2018. The artists of our community were invited to create fan-arts or re-design a character from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass books.

BRIEF''Alice, a child who lives in the mid-Victorian Era, starts feeling bored and drowsy while sitting on a riverbank with her elder sister. Suddenly, she notices something weird: a clothed White Rabbit with a pocket watch. She decides to follow him and accidentally falls down a rabbit hole and lands into the mysterious world of Wonderland, a magical realm full of weird, wonderful (but also dangerous) people and creatures...''

Challenge #37: Bikers

Our thirty-seventh Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of January 2018, the deadline was the 2nd of February 2018. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Biker.

BRIEF''Outlaw bikers from all over the world are gathering in Chicago for a deadly event: the infamous “Highway to Hell”! An illegal motorcycle race which will see thousands of biker gangs ride down the old Route 66 to race and fight against each other for many dangerous days. Only one biker gang will make it to Santa Monica to put their hands on the rich final prize, while ruthless rivals, policemen and feds are on their tails. Are you gonna get there?...''

Challenge #36: Dragon Ball

Our thirty-sixth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of December 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of January 2018. The artists of our community were invited to create fan-arts or re-design a character from the Dragon Ball franchise.

BRIEF''A monkey-tailed warrior named Son Goku sets on a journey to find the seven Dragon Balls, mystical artefacts which have the power to summon the mighty dragon Shenlong to grant the user one wish. The journey brings Son Goku to unknown lands and distant worlds, in which he will fight (but also befriend) many powerful warriors, whimsical creatures and powerful Gods...'

Challenge #35: Burlesque Dancer

Our thirty-fifth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of November 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of December 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Burlesque Dancer. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Isabella Mazzanti

BRIEF''Madame Touverit invites you to The Royal Blue Mill! A place where humour, music, sexuality and dance blossom in what is known as 'Burlesque', a unique art form that makes fun of the bourgeois society in a witty and playful way. Get ready to laugh, drink and dance in the most exclusive club in the city!..'

Challenge #34: Demons & Devils

Our thirty-fourth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of October 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of November 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Demon. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest JurorLorenzo Etherington

BRIEF'The cursed book ''The Nine Gates to the Kingdom of Shadows'', which was supposedly written by Satan himself, has been brought to New York. The legend says that hidden in the pages is a riddle that, if solved, will open the Nine Gates of Hell. On the 2nd of November, The Day of the Dead, a black mass is finally organised by the leader of a secret society who claims to have the answer to the riddle. An ancient ritual is recreated, the forbidden words pronounced. At midnight, the armies of Lucifer, Beelzebub, Sathanus, Abaddon, Mammon, Belphegor and Asmodeus enter the mortal world after thousand of years..''

Challenge #33: Punks

Our thirty-third Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of September 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of October 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Punk. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest JurorStephen Silver

BRIEF''Punk is not dead! Using their body and music as a symbol of opposition and as a political statement, Punks express their disgust for all that is considered "normal" and ''acceptable'' in society. Their music will hurt your ears, their look will make you grandma scream! Get ready to join this hardcore subculture!...''

Challenge #32: Robots & Androids

Our thirty-second Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of August 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of September 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Robot. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest JurorMichal Dziekan

BRIEF'''In a not too distant future, artificial intelligence has reached incredible levels of sophistication. Robots have been integrated not just in the most important technical human endeavours, but in all aspects of everyday life: robot cooks, automaton taxi drivers, mecha police enforcers, synthetic humanoid sex-workers, pet-bots, droids maids: artificial intelligence is everywhere. Humans are completely addicted to robots and people who look suspiciously at this technology are simply seen as paranoiac conspiracy theorists. But one day everything changed...''

Challenge #31: Tarot

Our thirty-first Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of July 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of August 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a character from a Tarot deck cards. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest JurorFlorent Sacré

BRIEF''A mysterious Fortune Teller has just arrived in your town. No one knows who she is, nor where she came from, but rumours claims she owns a unique set of Tarot cards: when she shuffles them and then lays a card on the table, the character in it comes to life..''

challenge #30: Egyptian Gods

Our thirtieth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of June 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of July 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of an Egyptian God. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Sam Nielson

BRIEF''''In a forgotten time, at the shadow of colossals and mysterious pyramids, an ancient breed of men is building one the greatest civilisations the world has ever known: the Land of Kemet, Mansion of the Spirit of Ptah. The priests of the many temples of this land, custodians of esoteric knowledge, says that the power of their kingdom is a gift given to them by ancient beings, which power is beyond human comprehension. Beware then! Get ready to bow down and worship them.. or die. You are going to meet the mighty Egyptian Gods!''

Challenge #29: Indian Dancer

Our twenty-ninth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of May 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of June 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of an Indian Dancer. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Miki Montlló

BRIEF''This year the Sangeet Natak Akademi, the Indian National Academy for Music, Dance and Drama, has organised a unique festival to celebrate one of the most ancient, fascinating and colourful art forms in the world: the Indian Dance. The festival is conceived as a very inclusive event, in which the beauty of all kind of Indian dancing styles will be exceptionally showcased and celebrated in one place. From the Classical dances, to the Folk and Contemporary ones. Get ready to move your feet, it's time to dance!''

challenge #28: Game of Thrones

Our twenty-eighth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of April 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of May 2017. The artists of our community were invited to create fan-arts or re-design design one of the a character from the Game of Thrones franchise. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Torsten Schrank

BRIEF''The war is raging in the land of Westeros and the Houses of Baratheon, Bolton, Florent, Lannister, Martell, Redwyne, Stark, Umber, Targaryen and Tully have make their move to claim the Iron Throne. But far in the north, the Children of the Forest have spoken: the King in the North is on the move...''

challenge #27: Carnival of Venice

Our twenty-seventh Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of March 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of April 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Carnival of Venice costume. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Chris Ayer

BRIEF''Welcome to the Venice Grand Carnival Masquerade Ball! A sumptuous, decadent and lavish night party. Like every year, the ball will take place in the prestigious and charming Venetian palace of Ca' d'Oro, situated on the beautiful Grand Canal. This is not an ordinary event: get ready to join a spectacular party full of mystery, jokes, lust and surprises. Handsome waiters serve canape’s on trays, and the evening begins..''

challenge #26: Maori Warrior

Our twenty-sixth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of February 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of March 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Maori Warrior. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Paulo Ignez

BRIEF''In the legendary island of Aotearoa lives a breed of fearless warriors and sailors: the Maori! Travelling across the many islands of the South Pacific Ocean, a brave Maori Warrior will embark in a dangerous journey against all odds to make it back home..''

challenge #25: Hippies

Our twenty-fifth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of january 2017, the deadline was the 2nd of February 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Hippie. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Gabriele Pennacchioli

BRIEF''It's August 1969, the Summer of Love! Thousands of young americans are heading to the small village of Woodstock to attend an unforgettable event, a 4 days concert that will change history, 4 days of freedom, sex, drugs and rock & roll...''

challenge #24: Harry Potter

Our twenty-fourth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of December 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of January 2017. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a character from the Harry Potter franchise. To judge the designs submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Jean-Baptiste Monge

BRIEF''Harry Potter is a boy who learns on his eleventh birthday that he is the orphaned son of two powerful wizards, and possesses unique magical powers of his own. Harry is summoned from his life as an unwanted child to become a student at the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, an old academy hidden in Scotland. There, he meets several friends, who become his closest allies and help him discover the truth about his parents' mysterious deaths....''

challenge #23: Gladiators

Our twenty-third Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of November 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of December 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Gladiator. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Brian Ajhar

BRIEF ''It is a time of civil war in ancient Rome. The Emperor has decided to entertain the people of the city to avoid a bloody rebellion. The best Gladiators from all corners of the Roman Empire will fight to death in the most famous arena of the ancient world, The Amphitheatrum Flavium...''

challenge #22: Vampires

Our twenty-second Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of October 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of November 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Vampire. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Robert Sammelin

BRIEF ''It's the night of Halloween. A macabre group silently walks through the streets of Prague crowded by thousands of tourists and locals. They are the last Vampires, the Children of the Night, members of an ancient race of blood-thirsty undead. They all have responded to the invitation for the annual Banquet of Hecate, the Queen of the Damned, the oldest of their kind. One hundred virgins were abducted to become the main-course of this bloody celebration. But not so far away, in a secret chamber of Vatican City, the ancient Secret Order of the Vampire Hunters has been summoned by the Pope to put a stop to this massacre...''

challenge #21: Centaurs

Our twenty-first Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of September 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of October 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Centaur. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Stephen Silver

BRIEF ''Far away, in a mysterious and forgotten land, lives a race of mythical creatures: the Centaurs. The capital of their kingdom, the Forest of Thessaly, is ruled by the laws of their wise king Chiron. Under his guidance the Centaurs have lived for many years a peaceful and happy life but recently two young rebels, Pholos and Nessos, are treating this lifestyle. They want to bring back their people on a war-path against their ancient enemies: mankind...''

challenge #20: Aviator

Our twentieth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of August 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of September 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of an Aviator. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Anthony Holden

BRIEF'''Once again, it's War. The neighbouring nation has broken the long peace treaty that lasted for over 30 years. On the ground, the civilian casualties are endless, the enemy didn't respect the old martial laws and right now entire towns are burned and razed by the merciless bombardment. A brave aviator will get on board his airplane to defend his homeland: a hero of the skies has risen, and a new legend is born...''

challenge #19: Samurai and Geisha

Our nineteenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of July 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of August 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Samurai or a Geisha. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Meg Park

BRIEF''This is a story of loyalty, sacrifice, persistence, and honour. A samurai is on a journey to rescue the lovely Sudo Magodo, a geisha who has been kidnapped from the palace of his daimyo Mashiro Tamigi, his feudal lord. His heartbroken master has promised to commit seppuku (the ritual Japanese suicide) if his beloved lover will not be returned to him. With the help of the chief guard of the palace and loyal friend Fatu Nakazata, the fearless samurai will resolve this once and for all by fighting the bandit and kidnapper Pokoto Pokoto and his evil henchmen to the death...''

challenge #18: Sailor Moon

Our eighteenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of June 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of July 2016. The artists of our community were invited to re-design or create a fan-art of an existing character of the famous animated series Sailor Moon . To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Barbara Canepa.

BRIEF''In Minato, Tokyo, a middle-school student named Usagi Tsukino befriends Luna, a talking black cat that gives her a magical brooch enabling her to become Sailor Moon: a pretty guardian destined to save Earth from the forces of evil. Luna and Usagi assemble a team of fellow Sailor Guardians to find their princess and the Silver Crystal. They encounter the studious Ami Mizuno, who awakens as Sailor Mercury; Rei Hino, a local shrine maiden who awakens as Sailor Mars; Makoto Kino, a tall transfer student who awakens as Sailor Jupiter; and Minako Aino, a young aspiring idol who awakens as Sailor Venus, accompanied by her talking feline companion Artemis. Additionally, they encounter Mamoru Chiba, a high-school student who assists them on occasion as Tuxedo Mask...''

challenge #17: Mermaids and Mermen

Our seventeenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of May 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of June 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a mermaid or a merman. To judge the design submitted during the month the Special Guest Juror was Auguste Dupin, editor of CDR.

BRIEF''20.000 leagues under the sea lies the mythical city of Atlantis. It's inhabitants are mysterious creatures know by the humans of the upper world as Mermaids and Mermen. Their daily routine goes from simple things such as fishing, raising their children and play water polo, to more risky and dangerous endeavours like defending their beloved city from gruesome sea-monsters and intrusive expeditions of human beings..''

challenge #16: Heavy Metal

Our sixteenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of April 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of May 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a ruthless Heavy Metal musician. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror T-Wei

BRIEF''The Wembley Stadium this year will host a one-of-a-kind show: ''A Song of Blood and Fire Festival!'', an unmissable 3 days concert dedicated to all the metal fans around the globe. The mightiest bands and musicians will take part of this incredible event and your character.. will be one of them!''

challenge #15: Legend Of Zelda

Our fifthteenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of March 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of April 2016. The artists of our community were invited to redesign or create a fanart of an existing character of the famous video game franchise Legend Of Zelda. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Enrique Fernández

BRIEF''A small kingdom in the land of Hyrule is engulfed in chaos after an army led by Ganon, the Prince of Darkness, invaded it and stole the Triforce of Power, a part of a magical artifact bestowing great strength. In an attempt to prevent Ganon from acquiring the Triforce of Wisdom, another of the pieces, Princess Zelda splits it and hides the eight fragments in secret dungeons throughout the land. Before being kidnapped by Ganon's henchmen, Zelda commands her nursemaid Impa to find someone courageous enough to save the kingdom. While wandering the land, the old woman is surrounded by Ganon's henchmen, though a young boy named Link appears and rescues her. After hearing Impa's plea, he resolves to save Zelda and sets out to reassemble the scattered fragments of the Triforce of Wisdom, to become powerful enough to defeat Ganon..''

challenge #14: Vikings

Our fourteenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of February 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of March 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Viking warrior. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Denis Zilber

BRIEF''The remote village of Almdalir is one of the legendary harbours of a fearless breed of warriors and sailors: the Vikings! From this spot, its inhabitants sail the cold Northern Sea towards the unknown. The ones who make it back home bring with them stories of terrifying encounters with dragons, giants, gods and abominable sea monsters..''

challenge #13: Roller Derby

Our thirteenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of January 2016, the deadline was the 2nd of February 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a roller derby skater. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror the talented husband and wife animation artists Griz and Norm

BRIEF''New York City this year is hosting the Ultimate Roller Derby Tournament, the most important event for any roller skater. The greatest teams from all over the world are gathering to the Big Apple with one single goal: become the next Roller Derby World Champion. They will fight, they will push the limit.. and they're not gonna stop there!''

challenge #12: Shaolin Monk

Our twelfth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of December 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of January 2016. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a shaolin monk. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Nicolas Weis

BRIEF''The temple bells toll as the monks kneel in the pillared inner sanctum and bow before the great altar of the Golden Buddha, before which sits the Abbot of Shaolin. This year he will reveal to his students the secrets of the ''Bak Mei 白眉 Kung Fu'', a lethal martial art style. Only 4 novices will handle the rigours of training this fighting style, and to them will be revealed how to use the mysterious Genk Jak Ging, known as the ''sacred power'', an explosive and deadly martial art technique..''

challenge #11: Olympian gods

Our eleventh Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of November 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of December 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of an Olympian God. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Dean Heezen

BRIEF''We're on a journey to Mount Olympus to make our acquaintance with It's powerful residents: the Olympian Gods!''

challenge #10: dia de los muertos

Our tenth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of October 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of November 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a celebrator of the Dia De Los Muertos. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Borja Montoro

BRIEF''The people in a remote town in Mexico are celebrating the Dia de los Muertos, a national festivity that commemorate the lives of the deceased with food, drink, parties, and activities the dead enjoyed in life. Dia de los Muertos recognises death as a natural part of the human experience, a continuum with birth, childhood, and growing up to become a contributing member of the community. Some believe that this day the souls of the departed return to earth to visit with and to provide council or give advice to family and loved ones..''

challenge #9: Private detective

Our ninth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of September 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of October 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a private detective. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the privilege of having as our Special Guest Juror Bobby Pontillas

BRIEF''An unusual crime has shocked the city last week. The body of a well known aristocrat, Lady Poppington, was found in her bedroom by her housemaid. Four other people were in the Poppington Mansion at the moment of her death: Philip the butler, George the Gardener, Miss Mimi the Housemaid and Mr. Boringburg, a guest of the victim: none of them heard or noticed anything unusual that night. The police didn't find any evidence at the crime scene that could lead to the killer nor did they find the murder weapon. The autopsy just revealed that the death was violent, but nothing more. Lord Poppington (the victim's husband) disappointed by the results of the police investigation, is personally getting in touch with the greatest private detectives to finally solve the mystery of his wife murder''

challenge #8: traveling circus

Our eighth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of August 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of September 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a circus performer. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Uwe Heidschötter

BRIEF''The Fantastic Travelling Circus of Madame de Balibari” finally stops in your town after an amazing tour around the globe. Talented and reckless performers, as well as some of the most exotic and dangerous creatures the world has ever known are part of this unmissable show''

challenge #7: master chef

Our seventh Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of July 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of August 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a chef. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the privilege of having as our Special Guest Juror Carlos Grangel

BRIEF''Pascal Mangionè, a veteran inspector of the famous guide ''Magnake Tepassa'' (the most influential and respected guide for bar and restaurants), is travelling all around the globe to decide who are the best 4 chefs of the year..''

challenge #6: post-apocalyptic survivor

Our sixth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of June 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of July 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a post-apocalyptic survivor. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Jeff Merghart

BRIEF ''Years afters World War III, the planet is a wasteland plagued by the destructive power of nuclear and chemical weapons, mutants, gangs of ruthless outlaws, zombies and crazy sentient machines. What's left of the human race are individuals ready for anything, fearless survivors.. ''

challenge #5: wizards & witches

Our fifth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of May 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of June 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a wizard or a witch. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the privilege of having as our Special Guest Juror Loish

BRIEF''Every 100 years wizards and witches from all around the globe gather in a secret location of the city of London for a magic duel. The prophecy says that only to the most powerful sorcerer of the Earth will be revealed the mystery of the Nine Worlds, the sum magical knowledge.. ''

challenge #4: steampunk explorer

Our fourth Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of April 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of May 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a steampunk explorer. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Rad Sechrist

BRIEF''In 1863, where an alternate nineteenth century Europe has made tremendous strides in steam-powered technologies, the scientists of Royal Engineer Society have succeeded in discovering the ''FogStone'' a pure mineral. They believe it can be harnessed to create as an ultimate power source for steam engines. However, the precious mineral seems to be located only in a remote (and seemingly inaccessible) corner of the world, so they decide to hire the most famous explorers of their time to find a secure path..''

challenge #3: gangsters

Our third Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of March 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of April 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a gangster. Auguste Dupin, editor of Character Design References, was the juror for this challenge.

BRIEF ''A new gangster arrives in town and is determined to take down, one by one, the ruthless gangs of Al Chiappone, Paddy Malone and Feng Zhu, the most violent criminals of the city.. ''

challenge #2: jedi & sith

Our second Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of February 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of March 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a Jedi Knight or a Sith Lord. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the privilege of having as our Special Guest Juror Wouter Tulp

BRIEF ''A long time ago in a galaxy far far away.. Over the planet Aquilae, a group of starfighters flew toward a distant speck. The speck gradually resolved into an immense space fortress, a planet-sized battle station called the Death Star. The only person who knows how to destroy it, a young member of the Rebellion, is on board of one of the starfighters intercepted by the Empire. Four fearless Jedi Knights will try to save the prisoner, but to do so they will have to face a Sith Lord and its deadly henchmen.... ''

challenge #1: Pirates!

Our first Character Design Challenge started on the 7th of January 2015, the deadline was the 2nd of February 2015. The artists of our community were invited to design their unique vision of a pirate. To judge the design submitted during the month we had the honour of having as our Special Guest Juror Uli Meyer

BRIEF''The map of the hidden treasure of the Captain One-Eyed Willie, the King of Pirates, has been found in Port Royal. Pirates from the 7 Seas are gathering in town to put their hands on the precious artefact..''

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Character Design References™ (CDR) is a webzine dedicated to the art of animation, video games, comics and illustration and it's the largest community of character designers on the Internet. Every day we share the finest artworks, collect the best tutorials and showcase the greatest animated shorts with an international community of over 500.000 artists, art enthusiasts and animation fans.

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Since 2013, Character Design References has supported and inspired a new generation of artists. We share only the finest artworks, the best tutorials and the greatest animated shorts with an international community of over 500.000 artists, art enthusiasts and animation fans.